Commerce
Samantha Schartman and Angela Siefer: A Call to the Research Community
As federal digital equity programs wind down, researchers are needed to help build sustainable models that keep communities connected.
ACP
The Affordable Connectivity Program was a $14.2 billion program that provided subsidized broadband connections of $30/month, and $75/month for Tribal households. However, the program ended in June 2024 after Congress stopped its funding.
Digital Inclusion
Affordable Connectivity Program Reached More Than Twice the Families of Lifeline
At Georgetown panel, researchers credit public-private partnerships for ACP's 43% take rate vs. Lifeline's 20%.
Expert Opinion
Jill Crosby, Sabrina Burns: Broadband Rollback Undermines Innovation
Policymakers revisiting the USF must recognize that affordable, reliable Internet access is essential for participation in the startup ecosystem.
Congress
House Panel Keeps FCC Budget Flat in 2026
Full committee denies FCC’s $26M budget raise request.
Rural
Rural Co-op Executives Press Congress to Modernize Universal Service Fund
Witnesses pressure lawmakers to update funding model and prioritize affordability.
Digital Inclusion
With ACP Gone, California Turns to LifeLine for Broadband Relief
Three-year pilot adds internet subsidies to the state’s phone discount program.
Broadband's Impact
Charter Hit with Class Action Suit over ACP Guidance
The complaint alleges investors were misled by company executives.
Broadband's Impact
Charter Execs Face Class Action After $9 Billion Stock Drop
Investor says executives downplayed customer losses tied to the Affordable Connectivity Program’s termination.
Earnings
Comcast Down 226,000 Broadband Subs
The company posted its highest mobile gains ever with 378,000 new lines.
House Appropriations
Governors Call on Congress to Prioritize Broadband Deployment
Asks for 'flexibility’ in administering broadband programs.
Expert Opinion
Karl Bode: California’s Affordable Broadband Bill at Risk of Being Destroyed by Lobbying
Amendments degrade the bill’s speed definitions, weaken the CPUC's ability to hold large telecoms accountable, and creates new financial risks for municipal providers.
Digital Inclusion
FCC Keeps Lifeline Voice and Data Benefits Steady Through 2026
Bureau keeps voice-only subsidies alive for one more year
Digital Inclusion
Digital Skills Advocates Warn BEAD Changes Undermine Workforce Training
'This is a real loss:' Panelists say cuts threaten progress on digital and AI skills training
Digital Inclusion
California Assembly Passes $15-a-Month Internet Bill
The act could save Californians $1 billion annually, but ISPs worry about costs
Digital Inclusion
One Year Without the Affordable Connectivity Program
Without the broadband subsidy, families are facing harsh tradeoffs to stay connected.
Digital Inclusion
Industry Escalates Fight Against State Broadband ‘Rate Regulation’
ACA Connects study predicts steep investment drop; while major trade groups urge DOJ to preempt state laws
